Vincent Calabrese Baladin Wandering Jump Hour

Vincent Calabrese is a quiet pioneer of independent watchmaking and a co-founder of the AHCI, formed to give legitimacy and visibility to independent creators long before the category had commercial traction. He is best known for his work at Corum, where his Linear Movement evolved into the Golden Bridge, as well as for his Spatial and Flying Tourbillons.

The Baladin, French for “wandering entertainer”, was created in 1988 during a financially difficult period for Calabrese, and its commercial success proved pivotal to his career. A mystery dial wandering jump hour housed in a 34mm case with bow tie lugs, it is a thoughtful blend of complication and Art Deco styling. One subtle design cue is the use of S and N in place of 6 and 9, as those numerals appear identical when inverted. For quadrant symmetry, this logic extends to 3 and 12, rendered as T and M for Midnight and Midday.

Despite its historical and mechanical importance, the Baladin remains surprisingly accessible and can still be found just under $5,000. This example includes the original box and unsigned Japanese paperwork from the original retailer.

Model: Baladin
Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet: Aftermarket strap
Size: 34mm
Dial: Black
Year: N/A
Condition: Surface scratches present. Free from any major imperfections. Runs and keeps time.
Paperwork: Yes
Box: Yes
Movement: Modified ETA
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 3 ATM